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Getting a used car is a tricky proposition on so many levels. Here is a used car buying guide. These are the important things you must check while getting a second hand car. The mandatory document check Make sure to check that all the necessary papers are in order and that the owner has them. Don’t rely only on virtual copies. Also, ensure that any loans on the vehicle have been fully paid off. Is it running, is it running well? Every car’s heart is the engine, so start by checking the engine first. It’s best to do this in the early morning. Pay attention to how long it takes for the engine to start. Listen for any unusual noises. Once the engine is running, accelerate it up to 3000-4000 RPM and listen for any unusual noises. Also, keep an eye out for excessive smoke. Leaks say a lot Check for any oil leaks from the engine or inside the hood. If everything looks unusually clean under the hood of the used car for sale, the owner or broker may be hiding something. If you’re purchasing a diesel car, inspect the condition of the turbo for any leaks. While driving, listen closely for any whistling sounds coming from the turbo. Electrical trouble Check headlights, indicators, seat belt warning sensors, wipers, music system, power window, rear view mirror adjuster, sunroof, etc. Get inside the car, turn on the key and check whether there is any warning light on in the instrument cluster. Have an eye for detail Inspect the car’s interior, including the dashboard, headliner, doors, and seats to ensure they are in good condition. Look for any dents, scratches, or areas that need paint. Additionally, check for colour variations between the outer panels in daylight, as these could indicate repaint work. Ensure the headlights, tail lamps, and alloys are also in good condition by conducting a close inspection for cracks. Lessons from the history Visit an authorised service centre for the specific vehicle and request to see the complete service history. Review each service record and note the cost of each service or repair, as well as the exact nature of the repair. Additionally, check for any insurance claims history, particularly if they indicate any prior accidents. If you are unable to find any service history, it is advisable to refrain from purchasing the vehicle unless it is in exceptional condition and you or your mechanic are completely confident in its quality. Drive and decide Remember to drive the car for at least 50 km in different manner: use full throttle, drive at low speeds and in higher gears, and turn the AC on and off. Make sure the clutch is not loose and shifts smoothly for all gears. Check by changing gears multiple times and ensure the car picks up speed properly with no jerking when releasing the clutch. Press the throttle fully and rev the engine up to 3000–4000 RPM to check the engine response and engine noise. Also, drive the car at 30–40 km/h and let go of the steering to check if the car veers to one side, as this could indicate a major issue or improper wheel alignment. Get it from the first owner Always prefer to buy a car from the first or second owner. Avoid cars with a third owner. If you are still buying, then don’t pay too much for it. Diesel vs Petrol vs CNG Most petrol cars will be in good condition, while the same cannot be said for diesel cars. Additionally, diesel cars require heavier maintenance compared to petrol orCNG cars, and diesel engine parts are also costly. If you are purchasing a CNG car,ensure that the CNG kit is government-authorised, and the owner has the necessarypapers for the kit. Where to buy used vehicles? Always prefer to buy a car only from the owner or an authorised dealer like Maruti Suzuki True Value. True Value promises high-quality & reliable pre-owned cars, digitally evaluated on 376 checkpoints. Second-hand cars from multiple brands are available at fair & transparent prices. Visit the Sarathy True Value showroom to find the car that fits your requirements.